Studies on character association and path coefficient analysis for grain yield and its influencing traits in little millet (Panicum sumatrense)

Abstract

The present investigation entitled “Studies on character association and Path coefficient analysis for grain yield and its influencing traits in little millet (Panicum sumatrense)” was conducted to estimate genetic variability, character association, path analysis and genetic divergence. Present investigation was carried out at All India Coordinated Research Project on Small Millet, at the college of agriculture farm Rewa (MP) during kharif 2014. Higher magnitude of PCV and GCV was recorded for days to 50% flowering whereas moderate value of GCV and PCV showed by the characters days to maturity, plant height, tillers/ plant, flag leaf length, peduncle length and 1000 grain weight. High estimates of heritability was recorded for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, tillers/ plant, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, peduncle length, length of inflorescence, biological yield/ plant, grain yield /plant and 1000 grain weight. High estimates of genetic advance was recorded for the characters viz., days to 50% flowering followed by flag leaf width, days to maturity, peduncle length, plant height, tillers/ plant and flag leaf length. Grain yield/plant showed highly significant and positive phenotypic correlation with harvest index, length of inflorescence, biological yield/plant and peduncle length. Path coefficient analysis indicated that the maximum positive direct effect on grain yield/plant followed by biological yield/plant, days to 50% flowering, length of inflorescence, peduncle length, tillers/plant and 1000 grain weight.